Douglas DC-7: America's Last Great Piston-Engine Propeller Airliner

The Douglas DC-7 was one of America’s most sought-after passenger aircraft in the mid-1950s, known for enabling westbound nonstop travel across the continental United States without refueling. Eastbound flights could already take advantage of the jet stream. The airliner also stood out for a roomier cabin than earlier models and for being substantially longer than the DC-6, giving airlines flexibility for more premium layouts on long, about eight-hour transcontinental routes. Production nearly didn’t happen, but American Airlines pushed the program with a $40 million order that covered development costs. The first prototype flew in May 1953 and the first aircraft entered service in November. Total DC-7 production ran from 1953 to 1958, with 338 built across DC-7, DC-7B (112), and DC-7C (final version with longer wings and fuselage).